The Time Setzer Got Stopped At Airport Security For Guitar Parts

April 2, 2025

Setzer was used to the chaos of airports, the hurried passengers, and the endless announcements echoing through the terminals. As a renowned guitarist, he spent countless hours traveling from show to show, his heart always racing with excitement at the thought of performing. However, on this particular day, the bustling atmosphere felt different. He was clutching a few guitar parts in his carry-on, essential components for his beloved Gretsch guitar. These parts were not just pieces of metal and wood; they were the keys to his sound, the heartbeat of his music.

As he approached the security checkpoint, Setzer felt a mix of anticipation and anxiety. The last thing he wanted was to miss his flight to a gig that could shape the course of his career. He breezed through the initial checks, but as he placed his bag on the conveyor belt, the mood shifted. An officer eyed the contents of his bag with suspicion. The guitar parts that were meant to inspire creativity were now a source of concern. Setzer’s heart sank as he heard the sharp beeping noise that signaled a problem.

“Sir, we need to take a closer look at your bag,” the officer declared, motioning for a supervisor. The supervisor arrived swiftly, and as they began to dig through his belongings, Setzer could feel the eyes of other travelers on him. He felt a wave of frustration wash over him. He knew these parts were harmless, just tools for his craft, yet here he was, standing in front of a crowd, under the scrutiny that made him feel small.

The moments ticked by, and the anxiety began to creep into his mind. What if he missed the flight? What if he couldn’t perform? The thought gnawed at him, but as he looked around, he caught a glimpse of a young boy, no more than ten, clutching a toy guitar with wide-eyed admiration. It reminded him of why he had fallen in love with music in the first place—the joy it brought to others. Inspired, Setzer took a deep breath and decided to speak up. “Hey, I’m a musician,” he said, his voice steady. “Those parts are essential for my performance tonight. Music is what I live for.”

The officer paused, the supervisor raised an eyebrow, and the tension in the air seemed to shift. Setzer explained how each part contributed to his music, how they were like puzzle pieces that completed the whole picture. To his surprise, the supervisor listened intently, nodding along. After a brief discussion, they decided to let him go, allowing him to keep the parts and board the plane with just moments to spare. Relief flooded through him as he dashed toward the gate, his spirit re-ignited.

That day at the airport became a turning point for Setzer. It reminded him of the power of passion and the importance of fighting for what mattered to him. He went on to play an unforgettable show that night, pouring all his energy into every note, fueled by the resilience he had shown just hours before. The experience became a story he told often, not just as a humorous anecdote but as a lesson in perseverance. It reinforced his belief that music was worth every challenge, every struggle, and every moment of doubt. Setzer knew he would always be ready to defend his passion, no matter the obstacles ahead.